Control rods made from strongly neutron-absorbing materials such as cadmium or boron are inserted into a reactor core. What is their primary function?
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Question

Control rods made from strongly neutron-absorbing materials such as cadmium or boron are inserted into a reactor core. What is their primary function?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Control rods regulate the number of neutrons available to produce further fissions. Inserting the rods deeper into the core absorbs more neutrons and reduces the multiplication factor k. Withdrawing them absorbs fewer neutrons and allows more neutrons to continue the chain reaction. Thus control rods are used to control reactor power and maintain the desired critical condition. Correct option: B.